How to relieve the pain of bunions

If there is a tremendously common foot condition that affects many people today, bunions They are probably one of the most normal and habitual ones. Its causes? In fact they are more varied than they are thought, and although genetics influences their appearance (for example because there is a defect in the mechanical structure of the foot), our habits are also decisive.

The most common? Improper use of footwear, which tends to press the fingers inside the shoe, limiting the normal movement of the fingers. In this sense, there are two shoes that commonly influence the formation of annoying bunions: on the one hand high-heeled shoes, and on the other hand, flip-flops and sandals. That is why it is very common in women.

Also the habits or our profession influence, especially those that suppose an excessive effort of the foot.

But obviously we should not forget about genetics either, since the bunions also appear in several members of the same family. Of course, we must not be confused: what is inherited is not the bunion itself, but the type of foot that influences the existence of deformities in the joint or bone.

What are the symptoms of the bunion?

When the bunion appears little by little we begin to feel its annoying signs or symptoms. On the one hand, we find the obvious bulge that develops in the external base of the big toe, which easily helps in its diagnosis.

On the other hand, It is common that this lump becomes inflamed and reddening, and that it also causes an annoying and uncomfortable pain, which tends to get worse with movement or simply after standing for a long time.

Over time, an arthrosis located in the joint arises as a result of the incorrect position of the bone, which in turn is the main culprit of the pain.

Useful tips to calm the pain caused by a bunion

There are some tips that help when it comes to preventing the appearance of a bunion. The most obvious is that of always wearing a suitable footwear that holds the foot well but allows the optimal movement of the fingers. In this sense, in case of using high-heeled shoes, sandals or flip-flops, it is best not to use them for a long time, nor in an excessive way.

It is also possible soothe the pain caused by the bunion. The most useful are the following:

  • Suitable footwear: Not only is it useful for its prevention, it is also very useful to soothe and relieve the pain caused by the bunion. On this occasion the recommendation is to completely avoid shoes that squeeze the fingers by the tip, using only shoes with a wide tip. High heels, sandals and flip flops are not advisable for a long time.
  • Ice: The application of ice directly on the bunion 2 or 3 times a day is useful to reduce inflammation, and therefore to reduce pain.
  • Use protectors and spacers: In pharmacies you can find bunion protectors (like foam pads) that are placed around the bulk of the bone and help prevent chafing and increased pressure. There are also spacers that help to separate the fingers from each other, keeping the finger in the right position.

Two simple exercises to relieve the pain of bunions

In addition to the 3 basic tips indicated above there are also two equally simple tricks that are very useful. In the first case it consists of a bunion correction massage which helps to improve the deformity of the finger, relaxing the muscle. It basically consists of applying pressure and sliding both thumbs of the hand from the top of the foot to the fingers, performing up to 10 deep pressures.

In the second case it consists of maintain a proper posture, for this it is necessary to support the foot correctly on a plant surface and then take the big toe and separate it from the rest of fingers, taking it outwards as long as possible. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.

How to Heal Bunions (March 2024)